They Bleed Maize and Blue... But Do They Wear Many NFL Helmets?
The University of Michigan Wolverines are a college football powerhouse. They've churned out legends like Tom Brady (well, okay, maybe he just vacations there a lot these days) and produced enough NFL talent to make you wonder if there's something in the Ypsilanti water that cultivates gridiron greatness. So, how many Wolverines have actually clawed their way into the pros?
More Than You Can Shake a Terrible Towel At (But Maybe Not As Many As You Think)
According to the folks at Pro-Football-Reference, a staggering 427 former Michigan players have suited up in the NFL. That's a whole lotta maize and blue on Sundays! Now, that number includes everyone from legendary Hall of Famers to the guy who spent a preseason with the Jacksonville Jaguars that one year. But hey, everyone starts somewhere, right?
Fun Fact: That number also includes a punter named Benny Friedman from the roaring 20s who also played defense occasionally. Guess they didn't have many specialists back then!
Wait a Minute, Isn't There More to College Football Than Michigan?
Absolutely! There are plenty of other schools that pump out NFL talent. But here's the thing: Michigan consistently ranks in the top 10 for the most NFL Draft picks year after year. Those Wolverines clearly have a knack for developing future pros.
So, What Does This Mean For You, The Avid Football Fan?
Well, if you're cheering for a team that struggles to draft well, you might want to keep an eye out for those incoming Wolverines. They just might be the difference between a winning season and another year of watching your team lose close games in heartbreaking fashion.
How to Spot a Former Michigan Player in the NFL (Besides the Maize and Blue Cleats)
- Relentless Motor: These guys never give up on a play. They'll chase down fumbles like a squirrel after a rogue peanut butter sandwich.
- Winter Toughness: Having played college ball in the Great White North (sometimes literally) prepares them for any kind of weather the NFL throws their way.
- Undying Love for the Victors Song: You might hear them humming it on the sidelines...
Bonus: How to NOT Spot a Former Michigan Player in the NFL
- Giving Up on a Play After One Tackle Attempt: See point #1 above.
FAQs:
How to Get Recruited by Michigan Football?
That's a tough one. Maybe start by dominating high school ball and working on your Hail Mary throws.
How to Get into Michigan Stadium on Game Day?
Tickets are notoriously hard to come by. Start saving your pennies (or become best friends with a season ticket holder).
How to Make the Transition from College to the NFL Easier?
Develop a thick skin. NFL coaches can be tougher than winter in Ann Arbor.
How Many National Championships Does Michigan Have?
That depends on who you ask... but officially, it's 11 (although Ohio State fans might argue differently).
How to Annoy a Michigan Fan?
Cheer for Ohio State. Just kidding... mostly.
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